Steady Start: India's Mineral & Metal Output Up in FY26

India’s mineral and metal production recorded moderate year-on-year growth in the first two months of FY26, with key increases across both ferrous and non-ferrous segments, according to data released by the Ministry of Mines.

Iron ore production rose by 0.6% to 53 million tonnes (MT) in April–May FY26, compared to 52.7 MT during the same period last year. In FY25, total iron ore output stood at 289 MT. Manganese ore production increased by 1.4% to 0.70 MT, while bauxite output climbed 0.9% to 4.73 MT. Zinc concentrate saw a 3.7% rise to 0.29 MT, and limestone production reached 81.40 MT, marking a 1.6% increase.

In the non-ferrous segment, primary aluminium production grew by 1.3% to 7.07 lakh tonnes (LT), up from 6.98 LT in the same period last year. Copper output posted a significant 43.5% surge, reaching 0.99 LT, driven by increased demand and expanded production capacity.

The overall growth reflects sustained industrial momentum in core sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and energy infrastructure, with base metals continuing to play a vital role in India’s economic development.

News by Rahul Yellligetti.